A BUSINESSMAN chipped in to feed those in need to mark a special date in the potato lover’s calendar.

Graeme Fernie, who runs Mr Chips fish and chip shop in Lennox Street, Weymouth, teamed up with the Salvation Army to provide meals for the homeless and vulnerable.

Mr Fernie said: “The Potato Council asked us if we would like to do something for National Chip Week. We came up with the idea of helping out the Salvation Army.

“On Tuesdays they feed all of the needy people on Westham Bridge, so we donated sausage and chips.

“We handed out a three course meal of soup and a roll, sausage and chips and apple pie with custard and ice cream.

“It was great. The people were very gracious, whatever their circumstances.”

Granville Myers, who runs the Salvation Army in Weymouth said: “We always feed the vulnerable every Tuesday on Westham Bridge, but Mr Chips very kindly offered to provide something quite different. It was a treat for all those that were fed.

“We are always grateful for any help we receive with providing food.

“It was something special.”

Mr Fernie received contributions from Asda, Tesco, Bookers and Morrisons for the donated meal.

He said: “There are a million different reasons why people might need this charity.

“If I could, I would help out every day. It would be nice if other businesses could see our story and want to help out too.

“This charity helps people get through some tough times. There are some real hard luck stories there.

“It was a brilliant thing to be able to do and they were very grateful.

“If I can do it again, I will.

“The Salvation Army does all sorts of good for people.”

Mr Fernie, an ex-serviceman, bought the business three years ago.

He said: “It was closed when I bought the shop. We ripped it all apart and started again.

“I am really pleased with what we have achieved.

“These are tough times for everyone, but we just have to keep going.”

National Chip Week, which finished yesterday, celebrates the humble chip and promotes everything great about the food.

A new map drawn up in honour of National Chip Week reveals that Dorset chip lovers prefer theirs with nothing more than a sprinkling of salt and vinegar.